Dixon said she will be joining Simon Cowell when he returns to the talent show's judging panel this year.

The 33-year-old, who has spent three years judging dancers on Strictly, will now sit alongside Little Britain actor and comedian David Walliams and Amanda Holden, who is returning to the show for its sixth series.

A statement on her website said: ''Alesha has decided not to return to Strictly Come Dancing after a successful three-series run and will instead be joining the Britain's Got Talent panel, alongside Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and David Walliams.''

Dixon said: ''After three incredible years on the Strictly Come Dancing judging panel I have decided that it is time to move on.

''Strictly Come Dancing will always hold a special place in my heart as it has been such an amazing experience, both as a winning competitor and as a judge.